Auto Emergency Kit |
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Eric Holm
5 October 2009
Sometimes in our life we face certain unusual or emergency situations or accidents for which we are generally not prepared. In today's fast paced life, most of us use cars for traveling. In the rush of reaching our destinations we often make the mistake of avoiding important safety measures, the result of which can be disastrous road accidents. A road accident may happen due to a vehicle colliding with another vehicle, pedestrian, animal, or with geographical or architectural obstacles. Most of these accidents result in injury, property damage and sometimes even death. Though a well designed and well managed vehicle with good brakes, tires and well adjusted suspension is always easier to control in an emergency situation, keeping emergency supplies within easy reach is highly advisable.
The absence of proper auto emergency kits and first aid kits in cars can prove very costly. Accident survivors may succumb to death in the absence of emergency medical care or first aid. Many accident victims have come out as survivors of automobile accidents as they had disaster kits in their cars. Statistical records show that motor vehicle collisions are one of the leading preventable causes of death in the United States. Since accidents do not come with a warning, acquainting yourself with proper first aid supplies in your car can save you in life risk situations.
What all should you have in your auto emergency kit? When it comes to long distance travel, a road emergency kit should be selected based on the road conditions, distance of the journey, the environment, weather as well as the traffic conditions on the road. Keep these factors in mind while deciding what should be there in your kit and what can be left behind. Some of the basic items to help you get back on the road quickly and safely include the following.
Since tire bursts or slow leaks are a common cause of accidents, carrying a 12 Volt tire pump or an aerosol tire inflator is necessary.
A car battery charger or simple jumper cables that you can use to start the car if it has failed without warning. It works wonders if charged fully.
Duct tape and wire to fix windows or pipes are other important items to carry in your automobile emergency kit.
A fire extinguisher.
A flash light if you are driving at night or have to cover a long distance that might include night-time driving.
If it is winter, carry ice scrapers, solar blankets, and heating sticks to keep you warm.
If you are stranded in your car a few food bars and some water will be needed.
Your auto emergency kit should have a sharp pocket knife to cut seat belts and duct tapes if required.
The basic first aid supplies are cotton balls, plastic bandages, more wet naps, large gauze, and rubber gloves are a must.
Cleansing agent/soap and antibiotic towelettes for disinfection.
Antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
Adhesive bandages, sterile dressings and surgical tapes.
Eye-cleansing solutions and burn ointment.
Over-the-counter medicines such as pain relievers and anti-diarrhea medications.
All of these will help accident victims to survive a crash before the paramedics and other rescue services arrive.
Last but not the least is an injury-information card that describes the symptoms, treatment, the cognitive rehabilitation and the recovery from any mishap prior to getting professional help.
By now you must have an idea that how important it is to carry an automobile emergency kit in your car before stepping out of home. After all, your safety is in your hands. So, what are you waiting for? Just order your emergency car kit and enjoy a safe and peaceful journey.